Terrestrial animals breathe oxygen from the atmosphere, while aquatic animals extract dissolved oxygen from water, leading to a faster breathing rate in aquatic organisms.
How do terrestrial animals and aquatic animals differ in obtaining oxygen for respiration?
Share
Terrestrial animals obtain oxygen directly from the atmosphere through specialized respiratory organs, such as lungs. They breathe in air containing oxygen and release carbon dioxide during respiration. In contrast, aquatic animals extract oxygen dissolved in water through gills. These animals often have faster breathing rates due to the lower concentration of dissolved oxygen compared to the air. Aquatic organisms, like fish, force water over their gills, where oxygen diffuses into the bloodstream. The distinct respiratory strategies of terrestrial and aquatic animals reflect their adaptation to the availability and nature of the respiratory medium in their respective environments.